Malaysia is a paradise of lush forests, pristine beaches and tropical islands. World renowned for its diversity in wildlife and people, this incredible country offers visitors a wealth of activities and fascinating things to both see and do. The result of this fantastic melting-pot of culture is a relaxed, open-minded way of life, and a world famously warming hospitality. If you can picture yourself living and working on a tropical island, contributing towards supporting local communities whilst sampling the fantastic Malay cuisine, then this beautiful country is the place for you!

Head to the pristine beaches of the beautiful Perhentian Islands where you can join Frontier’s Malaysia Community Development project. You will have the exciting opportunity to make significant contributions to the livelihoods of the people from the local community and make friends for life. Get involved with these exciting projects all while enjoying a slice of life in Malaysia.

PROJECT HIGHLIGHTS

Teach and engage with local communities about environmental issues

Empower women of the island

Help keep the pristine beaches of the Perenthians clean

Create an array of unforgettable memories

FAST FACTS

Location

Perhentian Islands, Malaysia

Activities

Raising environmental awareness through different channels
Empower women
Community development through painting, gardening and light construction

WHAT DOES THE PROJECT DO?

This project aims to help support and develop the livelihoods of people within some of Malaysia’s impoverished communities. This is achieved through a range of engagement activities such as teaching English classes, leading school clubs on environmental awareness, providing a platform for local women to gain financial independence through vocational skills and helping with construction and beach cleaning to help maintain the local community.

WHAT WILL I BE DOING?

On this project you will be able to get involved with a range of activities to help support and develop the local community. These include, but are not limited to the different aspects:

Teaching and School Clubs

Help teach and organize three weekly school clubs in Eco-Snorkeling, English and Environmental classes. You will be able to assist with preparing and leading fun educational activities for the children on the island.

Women’s Support

You will be able to support local women by helping to increase their income and environmental awareness. Each week, local women host traditional ‘kuih’ (snacks & cakes) making sessions for volunteers and tourists. You will be able to give talks around local resorts to help encourage more tourists to support the local women by attending these classes or buying their products.

Construction, Beach Cleaning & Recycling

Community development work may include construction and mini DIY projects, mural or signboard painting, herb garden maintenance, and beach cleans. A recycling competition has been introduced at the local primary school to help reduce litter on the island.

WHAT HAPPENS WHEN I ARRIVE?

It is best to arrive Monday morning or the day before and stay in a hotel for the night. You can then get the boat Monday morning ready for an induction that afternoon. There will be more instructions on how to make your own way to the jetty in your field brief, available four weeks before your project commences.

Alternatively, a pickup can be arranged for MYR50 and you will be met at the airport. Return to the airport is the same cost.

WHERE WILL I BE STAYING?

Throughout your project you will be based at our volunteer camp on the beautiful Perenthian Islands staying in a volunteer guesthouse located in the village. You will share a mixed-sex dormitory-style room with other volunteers, which will be fitted with a ceiling fan and a shared a bathroom. There is a fully equipped kitchen if you want to cook for yourself, and a basic but comfortable lounge for you to enjoy in the evenings.

WHAT WILL I BE EATING?

Malaysian food is heavily influenced from a variety of cultures from all over the world; the fusion of Malay, Chinese and Indian flavours create a symphony of aromas and exotic tastes.

You will be provided with a daily food allowance when on the programme to cover your 3 meals per day, which you can choose to spend at the local restaurant or shop. This is a great opportunity to sample the local delicacies, as well as supporting the local economy!

Eat like the locals by trying a tasty Nasi Dagang for breakfast, or join the cult following in Kuala Lumpur addicted to Hokkiem Mee noodles. The multicultural community of Malaysia has many cultural differences however they are all passionate about their cuisine creating a unique, delicious culinary style.

ADDITIONAL OPPORTUNITIES

The beaches of the Perhentian Islands are spectacular – with their pure white sand set against clear turquoise water it is a beautiful setting to relax in with a book after a long day. If you want to see more of the islands there are opportunities to trek the jungle, where you have the chance of seeing a number of species of large reptile, bugs and maybe even some wild monkeys. Or alternatively, you may decide to view the islands from afar on a kayaking day trip.

Malaysia is brimming over with exciting and unique world heritage sites and flourishing forests ready and waiting for you to discover. After you complete your project why not discover Kuala Lumpur’s spectacular landmarks by taking a hop on hop off bus tour around the city; learn how to cook like the locals with cooking lessons or take a stroll along the canopy skywalk in a nearby national park. Other opportunities include exploring the tea plantations and refreshing mossy forests of the Cameron Highlands, or taking an eco-bike tour through Melaka or discovering your inner peace with yoga lessons along Langkawi’s spectacular beaches.

WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED

To apply for this placement, click on "Apply Now" below. Fill in the short application form and one of our advisers will then call you back to answer any questions and make sure this is the perfect placement for you. Applying doesn't cost a penny and you won't pay anything until you're completely happy and you're ready to reserve your place.